WWE wrapped up with another SmackDown episode, and as constantly, we're back with a stacked edition of the daily rumour roundup.The day's most significant story focuses on the plans to push a young superstar as the next Brock Lesnar.We also have a huge update on Cody Rhodes' WrestleMania 38 opponent as the previous star could possibly deal with one of the most recognized stars in WWE.Pete Dunne just recently received a new name following his move to SmackDown, and we ended the roundup with backstage responses to the unexpected change.
# 1. WWE wants Gable Steveson to become another Brock Lesnar.
As reported by Dave Meltzer in the most recent Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Gable Steveson will be fast-tracked to the main roster quickly.Additionally, WWE officials have high expect the Olympic gold medalist and intend on pushing him to be the next Brock Lesnar:
" Gable Steveson will also be fast-tracked to the main roster. Meltzer said, "the idea is for him to be another Brock Lesnar," reported Dave Meltzer via Cageside Seats.
Gable Steveson signed with WWE in September 2021 as part of the business's first-ever NIL deal.The accomplished amateur wrestler has actually shared a close relationship with Brock Lesnar for several years as they are both from the University of Minnesota. Steveson was drafted to RAW last year, and while he's yet to make his full-fledged debut, fans are excitedly anticipating seeing him carry out inside the squared circle.Nevertheless, could Gable Steveson reach Brock Lesnar's level in WWE?
# 2. Cody Rhodes to deal with Seth Rollins at WrestleMania 38.
It is confirmed that Cody Rhodes vs. Seth Rollins was planned.The plan was not to do anything up until after the Chad Gable & Otis vs. Riddle & Randy Orton vs. Rollins & Owens tag championship, and now that is over and it's time to get Rollins' new program going.
Clashing reports about Cody Rhodes' future have flowed over the past few days. While some think Rhodes is on his way back to WWE, others aren't too confident about the return pertaining to fruition.
Dave Meltzer offered an update in the Newsletter and revealed WWE has set up a creative plan for Cody Rhodes to handle Seth Rollins at WrestleMania 38.
Kevin Owens will have an angle with Stone Cold Steve Austin. Rollins, a 14-time champion in WWE, needs a WrestleMania match, and the creative team is angling towards a huge face-off including Cody Rhodes:.
" WWE had its creative established for a secret debut of Rhodes imminently, as in the next week or two, regarding how he was debuting and a match that has been confirmed would be with Seth Rollins at WrestleMania," Dave Meltzer revealed.
Please keep in mind the creative team will hold back on the plans till Rhodes signs a contract. Since this writing, the ex-AEW star is yet to put pen to paper on a full-time deal, and we should get more clearness on the situation in the next few days.
# 3. Backstage reaction to Pete Dunne's new name.
Pete Dunne appeared on the current SmackDown episode, aligning himself with Sheamus & Ridge Holland. What captured fans off guard was Dunne's repackaging as "Butch." Now, Fightful Select has actually revealed a number of backstage notes on the name change.
Fightful discovered WWE had planned "something extremely dumb" for the episode, and talent backstage hypothesized a known face was about to get a new name before the show.
There were wrestlers from outside the company who understood about the incoming change.
An unnamed former WWE talent stated the motivation behind the name "Butch" is potentially from the Little Rascals television series from 1950.
Butch is now a main member of the main roster. WWE at first had plans for Sheamus & Holland to face The New Day at WrestleMania 38. Big E, unfortunately, broke his neck on SmackDown, and the planned WrestleMania match is now in jeopardy.
